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The Arizona State hockey program is undergoing a significant leadership change. On Thursday morning, the university announced that Dave Hakstol, a former North Dakota and NHL coach, will become the next head coach of the Sun Devils. This is a permanent hire, not an interim position.
Greg Powers, the now-former head coach, has mutually agreed to part ways with the school. Powers was associated with the incident involving ASU transfer Matthew Mayich's collapse. The decision marks the end of an era for Sun Devil hockey.
Building the Staff
Rumors of Hakstol's return to college hockey had been circulating for the past week, but questions remained about the rest of the coaching staff. Alongside Hakstol's hiring, it was announced that two-time Stanley Cup champion Matt Greene will join as an assistant coach. Additional staff moves are expected, as Hakstol was widely expected to have full control over the coaching staff, even if he had been an interim hire. Now, with Hakstol bringing a Frozen Four and NHL pedigree, the building—and for existing program members, rebuilding—can begin.
Greg Powers' Statement
In a statement released upon the news of his departure, Powers said: "Firstly and most importantly, I continue to hope for strength and healing for Matthew and his family. Today I have mutually agreed to leave my position as Head Coach of Sun Devil Hockey. Against all odds, for almost two decades, so many of us have poured our hearts and our souls into building a Division I Hockey Program at Arizona State. I want to thank everyone who played a part in making this dream a reality. From our families, coaches/staff, donors, fans, and administration both past and present—Our program would not be where it is today without your unwavering dedication and support. To our Hockey alumni, I love you all so much—Unconditionally. A new chapter of Sun Devil Hockey now awaits. It is my hope that everyone will continue to support Sun Devil Hockey with the same passion and vigor that we all have to this point. I also wish Success, and pledge unwavering support to the new staff that has been chosen to push the rock forward to new heights. I love this program and always will. Go Devils and #BeTheTradition—Sun Devil For Life, GP."
Despite leaving his position, Powers will not simply fade away. An active investigation is ongoing into the August 20 practice session that left Matthew Mayich on life support. Mayich's family is fully aware of this. "Coach Power's departure should not limit his cooperation or anyone else's, and the players who have spoken up must be protected," the family said in a statement. "We wish Coach Hakstol, his staff, and the players a safe and successful season."
Next Stop: Lowell
Hakstol coached his final game for the Colorado Avalanche and is now heading to Massachusetts, where ASU will play its next weekend series. After addressing the team on Thursday, Hakstol plans to be behind the bench in Lowell on Friday night as the Sun Devils open against the UMass Lowell Riverhawks. Arizona State will be on the road until November, when they return home for a Nov. 6-7 series against Denver.
Dan Allison is a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University, graduating Cum Laude in Sports Journalism. He currently works for the Rio Rancho Observer and the Albuquerque Journal in New Mexico and has covered high school sports in both New Mexico and Arizona. He is a contributor to High School On SI and began contributing to Arizona State Sun Devils On SI in 2026.